Russia Vows Retaliation After Drone Attack Hits Civilian Ship Near Kerch Strait
Russia has slammed a “terrorist attack” on a civilian vessel near the Kerch Strait and promised swift punishment for those behind it. The targeted ship, a Sig tanker, was hit about 17 miles south of the Kerch Bridge, linking occupied Crimea to Russia.
Ukraine Claims Drone Strike but Denies Civilians Targeted
Ukrainian security services have claimed responsibility, admitting they deployed a sea drone packed with 450 kilograms of TNT. While they confirmed the strike, Kiev denied intending to hit a civilian vessel. The blast caused serious damage and has ramped up tensions in the volatile region.
Maria Zakharova, Russian Defence Ministry spokesperson, hit back: “Russia will respond.” Investigations are underway to track down those responsible for what Moscow calls an act of violence.
Black Sea Row Escalates as Russia Downs Another Drone near Crimea
The Kerch Strait remains a flashpoint amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with drones a new weapon on both sides. In a separate clash, Russia’s navy destroyed a “surface drone” off Sevastopol, Crimea, as Moscow steps up security to counter rising threats.
Ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has warned of fresh strikes against Ukrainian ports, vowing retaliation after Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian Black Sea vessels.
Ukraine Seeks Global Support as Drone Strikes Intensify
Meanwhile, Ukraine and 40 allies have launched peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, hoping to rally support beyond Western powers.
Back on the front line, Defence Secretary Oleksiy Danilov hailed August as a “particularly successful” month for Ukrainian drone raids. He praised each mission for honing their drone warfare skills.
Ukraine has now declared all Russian Black Sea ports and waters a “military threat zone” until 23 August, warning commercial vessels trading with Russia to stay clear.
